... History, Types, and Role of Uranium in Global Energy The discovery of uranium dates back to the late 18th century. In 1789, German chemist Martin Heinrich Klaproth, while studying the mineral pitchblende, identified an unknown element, which he named ... ... Energy Although uranium remains a key nuclear energy source, its significance may shift as countries work toward decarbonizing economies and transitioning to renewable energy sources. Alternative Energy Sources and the Shift to Renewables Despite uranium's ...